Gemotions

The hum of the espresso machine, usually a welcome sound, grated on his nerves. He tapped a fingernail on the counter, a rhythmic punctuation mark to the quiet of the coffee shop. He felt a deep, pervasive weariness.

He’d thought he'd crafted something groundbreaking: an automated barista robot. He was sure he was a genius, then someone else had patented a very similar design. The news had drained him of any enthusiasm, the fire in his belly turned to ash.

He pushed his untouched cappuccino away from him and rested his head on his hand. The day felt long. He wanted to do something, anything, but didn't know how.